Esther Salifu
A record-breaking gathering of over 60,000 teachers at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, on September 20, has triggered renewed national debate on the state of education and teacher welfare in Nigeria.
The event, tagged “Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025”, was officially recognised days later by Guinness World Records as the largest gathering of teachers in history.
The record was confirmed on September 23 via a Zoom call by Guinness World Records representative Rishi Nath, who praised the effort for shining global light on a critical issue.
“This is more than historic,” Nath said. “It’s a reminder that teachers deserve to be at the centre of national dialogue.”
The historic feat was organised by Nigerian educator and advocate Mr. Seyi Anifowose, in collaboration with international non-profit 1 Million Teachers. But beyond setting a record, Anifowose and stakeholders say the event was designed to demand attention to longstanding issues affecting the teaching profession in Nigeria.
Speaking after the confirmation, Anifowose described the achievement as a call to action, not just a celebratory milestone.
“This is not about a certificate it’s about change,”
“Tafawa Balewa Square is where Nigeria declared independence in 1960. We chose it to symbolise a new independence this time, for our teachers and for the education system.” He said .
According to Anifowose, the next phase will involve policy engagement with lawmakers, particularly in areas of teacher training, improved welfare, and education sector reform. He announced plans to meet with the National Assembly to push for legislative support.
Nigeria continues to grapple with deep-rooted challenges in its education sector. A critical teacher shortage, overcrowded classrooms, underfunded infrastructure, and poor remuneration are among the issues plaguing the system. According to UNESCO, Nigeria ranks among countries with the most severe teacher shortfalls globally.
“Teachers stood in the rain and under the sun to be counted because they want change,”
“This was a test of resilience. We have proven that Nigerian teachers are ready to lead that change.” Said Anifowose.
The Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, hosted the event. Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, Anifowose’s home-state leader, also offered moral and logistical support. Several teachers’ unions and education agencies backed the conference, describing it as a pivotal moment for the sector.
Observers say the scale of the mobilisation reflects both growing frustration and collective resolve among Nigerian educators.
As national attention turns to education reform, many are now watching to see if the symbolic momentum from the world record will lead to tangible policy shifts.
“The world record is just the beginning what we do next will determine whether this becomes a historical footnote or a foundational moment for Nigerian education.” Anifowose stated .
